Punjab Deploys Anti-Smog Guns Amid Lahore Water Scarcity Concerns

Lahore has deployed anti-smog guns—large water cannons spraying fine mist into the air—to combat severe air pollution by reducing particulate matter, with initial results showing up to a 70% reduction in PM10 particles in some areas. These water cannons require significant water resources, with estimates indicating that around 2.2 million liters of water per day are needed, raising serious concerns amid Lahore's ongoing groundwater scarcity crisis. Environmental experts criticize the initiative as "smog theatre," questioning its sustainability and overall effectiveness, noting that similar technologies were abandoned in China due to limited impact. The Punjab Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) defends the project, emphasizing its tailored approach to local conditions and ongoing technical assessments. Meanwhile, in New Delhi, authorities have also intensified anti-pollution efforts by deploying anti-smog guns on buildings and roads, mandating installation on high-rise commercial structures to combat air pollution. Despite these efforts, experts stress that long-term improvement requires addressing deeper emission controls beyond temporary measures like water cannons.